A stunning coming-of-age graphic novel from cartoonist Barbara Mazzi, exploring the dystopian divide of class difference, the strength of human connection, and what truly makes the heart tick.

The Hourglass is called many things: the perfect machine, the source of all life, the fountain of youth. It promises immortal comfort to the privileged, but it also looms over its creators, trapping them in its cycle.

Martel knows that there are other, inexplicable things that give life meaning, way more valuable than her own immortality. She only feels alive in the stolen moments with Twenty, an assembly worker in the dangerous gears of the machine. Will the differences between their lives tear their relationship apart, or will the Hourglass shatter first? After all, a society built on rejecting these feelings is beyond fragile... it’s a ticking time bomb.

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“Engrossing. The rush and panic of time that seems to stand still (for some) are so palpable in the dynamic panels, drawn in the style of an industrial designer. Barbara Mazzi exceeds expectations of balancing the juxtaposition of action and moments of quiet, making Hourglass something to be studied among the comics community.” – Deb JJ Lee, Ignatz Award-winning and Eisner-nominated author of In Limbo

“A thoughtful, dreadful setting with great character moments.” – Theo Stultz, Blade of the Fane